Scotland’s roads named UK’s worst

Rural roads account for 50 per cent of fatal vehicle crashes across the UK. An average of three deaths is recorded weekly in Scotland.

Published:16:33Thursday 07 July 2016

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Scotland is the most dangerous place in the UK to drive, according to recent Government figures, with three motoring-related deaths recorded every week.

At 10 per cent, Scotland has the highest death rate from road accidents involving motors compared to the rest of the country meaning that accidents are five times more likely to involve a fatality compared to the national average.

Statistics released by the UK Government show that there were almost 190,000 incidents recorded last year and despite an overall 2.6 per cent decrease on the year before, general vehicle casualties in Scotland totalled 10,080 injuries, of which 178 were fatalities.

The report also indicates that rural roads are responsible for the majority of fatal crashes, claiming 50 per cent of the lives lost across the whole of the UK.

Urban roads come a close second at 44 per cent while motorways account for 5 per cent.

Mark Wilkinson, managing partner at Heritage Car Insurance, said: “Our best advice is to take precautions when driving.

“Whether you’re in rural or urban areas, stay alert and be aware of other motorists, pedestrians and cyclists on the road.”